Ritchie Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Ritchie Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 390 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 46 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 499 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 149 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1922 (104 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00545 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Thomas M Hearne
Private
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High Hazard 76 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ritchie Lake Dam?
Ritchie Lake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Ritchie Lake Dam?
Ritchie Lake Dam is owned by Thomas M Hearne (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ritchie Lake Dam built?
Ritchie Lake Dam was completed in 1922, making it 104 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Ritchie Lake Dam?
Ritchie Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Ritchie Lake Dam last inspected?
Ritchie Lake Dam was last inspected on October 25, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.